In Traces of Absence / Illusion Francisca visualises the illusionary nature of the peerage system, questioning the seemingly distinguished social standing that people inherit through a title.

Laid out before us are the French coats of arms from the Napoleonic rule, created by Napoleon (somewhat ironically) to form a system of nobility after the revolution. Surrounded by glittering gold leaves, Francisca frames these shields to be just what they are, truly decorative, illusions of rank with little achievement behind them.

In further mockery, the icons - the little stag, the palm tree, the sword in hand - are splattered with gold paint: a rebellious stain on their imagery, emphasising the superficiality of a coat of paint.

As with much of Francisca’s work, there is a subtle beauty to a powerful message, sharpening its poignancy. She has laid bare the pages of history and framed them in a defiant and dazzling protest.